Child Safety Seats

Every year, countless children die because of improperly installed car seats. These needless deaths can be avoided by ensuring that your child rides in a safety seat that is installed and maintained properly.

Q: What is the best car seat to buy?
A: According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, there is no one seat that is the "best" or the "safest." It is recommended that the best car seat is the one that fits your child the properly, is installed properly, and is used properly every time you drive.

Q: How can I make sure that my car seat is installed properly?
A: Firstly, follow the manufacturer's instructions exactly. Secondly, SAFE KIDS Howard County offers frequent child safety seat inspection sessions. You can call 410-313-6090 and schedule an appointment to have your car seat inspected.

Q: Can I use a car seat after it has been in an accident?
A: No. Once a car seat has been in a vehicle involved in a motor vehicle accident, it is no longer considered safe to use. This holds true even if there is no visible damage to the car seat.

Q: Where can I get more information about child safety seats?
A: You can get more information at the following websites:
National Highway Transportation Safety Administration

Q: Where can I get more information about the new child safety seat law that took effect on 6/30/08?
A: You can get more information at the following websites:
Maryland Kids in Safety Seats "KISS"